The best program for deleting files. Unlocker - a program for removing undeletable files

Deleting files and folders in Windows OS is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Yes, indeed, in most cases there are no problems with their removal, but very often you can observe situations where the removal of any component is impossible. Now we will look at the basic methods for correcting this situation, as well as some programs for removing unremovable locked folders and files. Such advice, I think, will be useful to many users of modern computer systems.

Basic problems with deleting files

Before we describe any program for deleting folders that cannot be deleted or locked files, we will consider the reasons for situations when the operating system itself blocks them, displaying a message that deletion is impossible.

There can be quite a lot of reasons, as is already clear. This primarily includes the use of attributes that block access to a particular component, the lack of access rights, the use of files and folders by some process at the moment, the presence of residual files after uninstalling applications that should be deleted only after a complete reboot of the system, already performed deletion, etc.

Now we will briefly look at each situation, and then see which “program” for deleting non-deletable files or folders is best suited in each specific case. In addition, options for removing some components using standard Windows tools without using third-party software will be considered.

Using Attributes

Let's start, perhaps, with the file parameters installed in Windows. So, we have a problem, how to delete a folder or file that is not deleted.

For frequently used text files and Microsoft Office documents, you can use a preview of so-called attributes. The fact is that some users, when creating their documents, simply want to either limit access to them or avoid attempts to edit them by third-party users. In this case, they simply set the “Read only” attribute in the document properties.

It is clear that with this approach you can open the file, but you cannot make changes. In some cases, this extends to attempted deletion. How do I delete a folder or file that is not being deleted in this case? Everything is simple here. You just need to uncheck the corresponding field, after which the deletion will occur without any problems.

Closing problematic processes

No less common is the situation when even a program for deleting folders that are not deleted may not work only because at the moment one or more files located in them are occupied by some process.

Let's take the simplest case. Let's say we have some folder containing an executable EXE file that is responsible for launching the program. It is clear that if the program is currently running, you will not be able to delete this folder. The system will display a message stating that the file is being used by such and such a process and will require you to close the application and then try again. But this is the simplest case.

If a file or folder is used by system processes, ending them even in the Task Manager is highly discouraged, as this can lead to the most dire consequences. This will be discussed a little later.

File permissions

Another situation where deleting files or folders can be problematic is lack of access rights. The simplest example is the creation of a document with administrator access rights.

Naturally, another user in his session, if there are local sessions of the administrator and several other users on one computer terminal (or in a network environment), having restrictions on rights, will not be able to remove such components. The solution to the problem is either to obtain the appropriate extended rights or to log in as an administrator.

Residual files after uninstalling programs

It also happens that when uninstalling some programs, messages appear stating that some residual files and folders will be deleted after a reboot. Here the situation is such that they seem to still be in the system (usually the user can see them even in Explorer), but in fact they are missing, or rather placed in another area of the hard drive that is inaccessible to the user. So it turns out that when you try to remove such components immediately, without waiting for a reboot, the system displays a message stating that the removal has already been performed.

In principle, if it is clearly indicated that files or folders need to be deleted manually, but for some reason they are not deleted, you just need to reboot the system and try again.

Uninstaller program iObit Uninstaller

In general, to uninstall programs, it is better to use powerful utilities such as iObit Uninstaller, which allow you to completely remove not only the program itself, but also the computer debris left behind, and even registry entries and keys.

If it comes specifically to residual garbage (most often hidden from the user), such software packages will become a universal solution.

Using optimizers

In some cases, you can use optimization programs such as Advanced System Care, CCleaner, etc.

Such applications can not only optimize the operation of the system, but also remove garbage that cannot be gotten rid of using standard methods. For example, CCleaner, “tailored” for the Android OS, in combination with Root rights, completely and simply removes “native” applications installed on a smartphone or tablet. The same applies to the complete removal of some components in Windows OS, because it is clear that some applications behave quite cunningly, and it is impossible to find them in the standard list of programs and components, not to mention their location in the system, when all components can be scattered across the entire hard drive or logical partitions.

Unlocker program to remove undeletable files

Now let's look at a universal tool for unlocking files and folders that are supposed to be deleted. Essentially, Unlocker is a “program” for deleting non-deletable files and folders that even have the system attribute.

Its advantage is that the main command for unlocking access is built into the context menu, for example, of Explorer. To unlock it, just call it by right-clicking on the file and activate the corresponding line, after which you can delete any component with complete peace of mind. What's most interesting is that this application is included in Windows 7. If for some reason the program is missing, it can be downloaded from the Internet. Honestly, you won't regret it.

The best programs to remove undeletable files

It is also worth paying attention to some third-party utilities that are no less interesting and powerful than Unlocker (and perhaps even superior to it).

Let's start with the simplest utilities. The File ASSASSIN application is a simple program for removing folders that won't be deleted (and the files in them), working like an Unlocker, building its own commands into the Windows menu. It works, I must say, no less effectively.

Another similar utility operates on the same principle. This is iObit Unlocker. As is already clear, it is based on the same principles.

But perhaps the most powerful and somewhat non-standard utility is a program for deleting folders that cannot be deleted and related files called LockHunter. What's so unusual about it? And the fact that, unlike many similar utilities, it has a two-level removal system, similar to how Windows operates in such cases.

During normal deletion, the selected (by the way, unlocked along the way) files and folders are placed in the so-called system recycle bin, from which they can either be restored or permanently deleted. This approach allows you to avoid situations with the accidental removal of any system components by inexperienced users, which, in turn, can lead to a complete “crash” of the entire system.

Conclusion

Of course, the list of programs can be continued indefinitely. But each user will decide for himself what to use as the main tool, since all applications have their own subtleties.

When deleting some files through the OS, a notification appears that the operation cannot be completed because the file is in use by another program. Next, you will learn why this happens and what tools you can use to successfully remove unnecessary files.

Description of the problem

If you open a registered file type in an appropriate program, such as a text editor or music player, you cannot simply delete it by switching from the editor to Explorer and clicking “Delete.” The operating system will not allow erasure of data that is currently being used in the operation of the PC. In this case, one process (run by the user) tries to erase a file from the storage medium, and another process (run by the operating system or another program) blocks the deletion operation, believing that it will lead to a malfunction or some other problem.

In fact, each of these processes is important and necessary, but it happens that the file to be deleted is not opened by any program, and at the same time the OS does not allow it to be deleted. As a rule, this is due to the following reasons:

Incorrect closing of a file by the program or incorrect termination of the program itself in the last session of its operation.
A virus has entered the PC, and when trying to remove the infected program or the virus itself, it tries to defend itself, not allowing itself to be easily eliminated.
The OS believes that some other user is currently working with the file - either from the same PC, or over the local network. Whether this is actually the case may be unknown, or it may even be known that there is and cannot be any other user. But in any case, it is impossible to delete such a file.

Below we will look at several ways in which you can solve the problem of undeletable files.

Simple removal methods

Initially, we suggest you use simple methods to solve the problem (listed in order of speed):

Reboot PC. Oddly enough, quite often it is this simple measure that allows you to shut down all OS processes and then successfully delete an unnecessary file.
Try renaming the file, if you succeed, then try deleting it (don’t forget to copy this file in advance if you may need it in the future).
Transfer the file to another logical drive/flash drive. If it works, delete it from a new location.
Check the file attributes (they can be changed in the “Properties” context menu item). Clear the "read-only", "hidden", "system", "archive" attributes and try to delete again.
Check the date the file was created and last modified. If it is clearly inadequate (according to the OS, the file was created in 1980 or was last modified in 2060), try changing the date to a realistic one and delete it.
If this file is typical and can be changed (for example, text in a format for “Word”), try opening it in a program appropriate for the file type, somehow changing the contents, saving the data in a new version, closing the program and trying to delete again . The same method can work with non-standard files, but the likelihood of a successful outcome is reduced.

A fairly simple method for deleting “busy” files and folders using the “Resource Monitor” and stopping the blocking process is described in a short, understandable video:

What should I do if I can't delete a file/folder due to permissions?

No access to file/folder. To delete this file/folder, you need to have “Administrator” rights - if such notifications appear when you try to delete a file/folder, you need to reconfigure the access rights. To do this, you will have to do the following manipulations (example of deleting a folder):

Right-click on the folder, select “Properties” - “Security” - “Advanced”.
In the “Owner” line, change the user to the one under which you are currently working in the system. To do this, you can click “Check names”, then check the box “Replace owner of subcontainers and objects” and click “OK”.
The “Windows Security” window will appear and for some time the OS will do “Change Ownership”. Next, the PC will ask: “Do you want to change the permissions for this folder so that you have full control rights?” Answer - “Yes.”
Next, we again see the “Properties” window, the “Security” tab. Click the “Change” button with a shield drawn, that is, we will just change our access rights to this folder, including the right to delete. For each user, put a checkmark in the top line “Full access” and “OK”.
You will have to wait for some period of time, now your access rights to the folder and objects inside it will change. Don’t forget to uncheck the “Read Only” option in the “General” properties tab and confirm this attribute change.

After a short wait, you can usually safely delete the folder. If Windows asks for access rights again, try repeating the described procedure.

All manipulations for deleting a locked folder or file can be seen in the video:

What programs can delete undeletable files?

If none of the above methods helped, then in such a situation you already have to use tools to delete files.

Unlocker

One of the most popular tools in the CIS for deleting files that do not want to be deleted is the Unlocker program. It can be downloaded by following the link to the developer’s website: www.emptyloop.com.

Important! Old versions of Unlocker may not work on 64-bit operating systems - Windows 7, 8, 10. Do not download old versions on unknown sites where the content has not been updated for a long time.

There are both installable (built into the operating system) and “portable” versions. Each version has its own minor advantages and disadvantages, but for one-time removal, the portable version is recommended. However, if you regularly experience problems with deleting files, then it is better to install Unlocker.

During installation, it is possible to install Unlocker Assistant. This assistant program is constantly visible in the “Taskbar” and will automatically launch in cases where problems arise with uninstallation.

Working with the portable version of the program is very simple:

Launch Unlocker.
Select the desired file in the window that opens, and you will see processes that do not allow you to delete it. These are “blocking descriptors”.
At the bottom left you can select action options - delete, unblock, transfer.

The principle of using the installed version is almost identical:

Agree and reboot.

Unlocker analogs

Unfortunately, official support for Unlocker has ended on Windows 7 (which usually does not prevent it from working normally under later versions of the OS), but for trouble-free operation under Windows 8 and Windows 10 it is better to use IObit Unlocker. The interface is very similar, Russified and generally does not cause any difficulties.

DeadLock

Unlike the previous program, this one must be launched on the computer in order to delete the desired file. You can download the application from the link: http://codedead.com/?page_id=822

Instructions for using the program:

Open the application and go to the “File” tab.
Select the file to be deleted.
Right-click on the file, then select “Unlock” or “Remove”.

The disadvantage of this program is that it only supports an English-language interface.

Using Live-CD or Live-flash

A radical way to get rid of an unnecessary file is to launch the operating system not from the hard drive of your PC, but from a Live-CD or Live-flash. But for this you need at least the Live-CD itself plus a disk drive for it. It’s better if you have Live-flash (the same thing, but on a flash drive, you don’t need a disk drive), a USB port is enough here:

Insert the Live media into the PC, boot from it (you may need to enter the BIOS).
Find the stubborn file on your HDD and erase it. The OS from the Live media will not object in any case, since for it any file on your PC is a foreign body.
Turn off your PC, remove the Live media, and boot your computer. The previously undeletable file will be deleted.

Unsure users should avoid this method in favor of using the special programs described above.

How to remove uninstallable programs

Some companies make it so that after installing their programs, your PC ends up with some additional programs that are completely unnecessary for you, and you did not give conscious consent to their installation. If you cannot remove such programs from the “Programs and Features” list using standard tools along the following path: “Start” - “Properties” - “Programs” - “Uninstall a program”, uninstaller programs will come to the rescue:

Revo Uninstaller Pro is one of the most popular programs for uninstalling other programs. Russified. Completely removes all references to the software being removed not only from the disk, but also from the registry. There is startup control; permanently erases not only programs, but also unnecessary files; clears browser histories (not all, you can check by version) and document histories in MS Office; is automatically updated. The unique “hunter mode” allows you to find and remove a program that is not listed in the list of programs.
IObit Uninstaller Free – Removes the entire package associated with the unwanted program. In addition, it has a forced removal function, which helps remove the most stubborn programs. Allows you to “roll back” Windows updates. Disables browser extensions and plugins. Creates a list of installed programs and saves to a file. Keeps a history of its work (uninstalling programs).
Advanced Uninstaller Pro. Removes cookies and customizes toolbars in browsers. Optimizes the registry file. There's even a font manager for Windows!

If the case turns out to be very difficult, try paid versions of uninstallers, for example, Uninstall Tool. If they didn’t help, all you have to do is contact the support service, where a qualified specialist will help you.

How to delete undeletable files from a flash drive

Most of the above methods are suitable for deleting files from a flash drive. In addition, you will always have the “last argument” in stock - full formatting. After it, there will be no files, folders, or viruses left on the flash drive.

So, if a situation arises where it is impossible to delete a file by normal means, because the operating system (more precisely, some of its visible or hidden process) believes that the files are still in operation, you can use the above instructions to successfully complete the deletion and get rid of unnecessary file.

Basic problems with deleting files

Using Attributes

Let's start, perhaps, with the file parameters installed in Windows. So, we have a problem, or a file that is not being deleted.

It is clear that with this approach you can open the file, but you cannot make changes. In some cases, this extends to trying a folder or file that is not deleted, in this case? Everything is simple here. You just need to uncheck the corresponding field, after which the deletion will occur without any problems.

Closing problematic processes

No less common is the situation when even a program for deleting folders that are not deleted may not work only because at the moment one or more files located in them are occupied by some process.

If a file or folder is used by system processes, ending them even in the Task Manager is highly discouraged, as this can lead to the most dire consequences. This will be discussed a little later.

File permissions

Another situation where deleting files or folders can be problematic is lack of access rights. The simplest example is the creation of a document with administrator access rights.

Residual files after uninstalling programs

In principle, if it is clearly indicated that files or folders need to be deleted manually, but for some reason they are not deleted, you just need to reboot the system and try again.

Uninstaller program iObit Uninstaller

If it comes specifically to residual garbage (most often hidden from the user), such software packages will become a universal solution.

Using optimizers

In some cases, you can use optimization programs such as Advanced System Care, CCleaner, etc.

Such applications can not only optimize the operation of the system, but also remove garbage that cannot be gotten rid of using standard methods. For example, CCleaner, “tailored” for the Android OS, in combination with Root rights, completely and simply removes “native” applications installed on a smartphone or tablet. The same applies to the complete removal of some components in Windows OS, because it is clear that some applications behave quite cunningly, and it is impossible to find them in the components, not to mention their dislocation in the system, when all the components can be scattered throughout the hard drive. disk or logical partitions.

Unlocker program to remove undeletable files

The best programs to remove undeletable files

It is also worth paying attention to some third-party utilities that are no less interesting and powerful than Unlocker (and perhaps even superior to it).

Another similar utility operates on the same principle. This is iObit Unlocker. As is already clear, it is based on the same principles.

Conclusion

Of course, the list of programs can be continued indefinitely. But each user will decide for himself what to use as the main tool, since all applications have their own subtleties.

In the life of every personal computer user, sooner or later the question arises: how to delete an unremovable folder or file? There are times when you really need to remove an element, but Windows does not allow you to do this, reporting problems. This could be an unknown folder, an unnecessary, outdated or memory-consuming object - the only important thing is that the operating system, for one reason or another, prohibits deleting this item. In this case, what matters is the methods and methods of getting rid of such folders and files, and not the reason for the ban.

Causes of problems when deleting files

One of the main causes of the problem is the involvement of the file in other processes.

A file that cannot be deleted may be involved in other processes

But there are exceptions when the element is not deleted even after closing the corresponding program. An example is files that are blocked due to improper use. Such files are saved on the hard drive and fill up the memory.

The file cannot be deleted due to failures during its installation or writing, resulting in the item being partially retained. In this case, the operating system restricts access for security reasons.

Thus, the main reasons for this problem include the following:

the file was blocked by the antivirus. For example, when an item is quarantined or when treatment is delayed;
the file is being used by another program;
The user does not have administrator rights, so deleting an element is impossible;
the item can be used by another person via a local network;
use of the file by the system;
write protection of a device, for example a memory card;
an empty folder may contain hidden files or the user has limited access;
Some viruses can masquerade as a DLL file.

Ways to delete undeletable files

There are many ways and methods to help solve the problem of files and folders that cannot be deleted.

Reboot

The essence of the method is to restart the personal computer and try again to remove the unnecessary element.

The step-by-step process of rebooting your PC consists of a few clicks

Task Manager

Let's consider the option of deleting files by deleting the folder with the contents of the program (using Skype as an example).

The method can be used for all similar situations.

Safe mode

If any object on your PC is infected with a virus, it will not function in safe mode. To activate the mode when loading the PC, you must frequently press (do not hold down) F8 on the keyboard. After this, a menu will appear in which you will need to select “Safe Mode”. Now you need to find the undeletable element and delete it. Restart your computer.

There is another way to enter safe mode:

Unlocker program

Unlocker is a simple, secure and free utility for unlocking files used in Windows. The program reflects the processes that are blocking the item and has the ability to delete, move or rename the file that is blocked. The installation does not take much time and is no different from the installation process of other software.

Unlock a file using Unlocker

Let's look at step-by-step instructions for using the program using the example of uninstalling Skype.

If the message “Folder is not empty” appears, you can create a new folder on the same drive, move the non-deletable items to a new location, and delete the corresponding folder using Unlocker.

DeadLock is a similar program that can unlock and remove unwanted item from PC.

Delete a file using the Deadlock program

If, when eliminating a file, a message pops up stating that it cannot be deleted, then the corresponding element is added to the list through the “File” menu. Using the right mouse button, an object can be unlocked, moved or deleted.

Undeletable folders and files can be deleted using the Deadlock program.

File managers

Total Commander is one of the most famous and used file managers, which is able to bypass certain Windows restrictions. To delete files:

Launch file manager.
Find the corresponding file in the list of directories.
Delete it.

In the case of a non-deletable folder, you need to go into it through the program and see the problem. When a hidden element is detected, you need to launch the task manager (Ctrl+Esc+Shift), go to “Processes”, find the file you are looking for and end it.

Video: how to use Total Commander

Formatting

In certain situations, deleting files is impossible, since the PC is infected with viruses that can penetrate from the Internet or external drives. To remove a supposedly infected item on a flash drive, you need to scan it with an antivirus program. If unsuccessful, it is recommended to format the memory card.

Format the memory card to remove the infected element

Autoload

To use the method you need:

If it is not in the list, then you need to disable everything and click “Apply”. Restart the PC and try again to eliminate the undeletable file.

Access level

The method is suitable for a network directory, that is, for PCs connected via a local network. The administrator creates some shared folders to store information. To prevent unauthorized deletion, access rights are limited.

To obtain full rights, you must do the following:

By checking the two boxes associated with deletion, the local user does not delete either the folder or the objects it contains.

Selecting the “Delete subfolders and files” sub-item does not delete either the folder or the objects in it

System Restore

To perform a system restore:

In the Start menu, hover over “All Programs”.
Click on “Standard” - “Service” - “System Restore”.
In the “Restore system files and settings” window that opens, click “Next”.
In the list of recovery points, select the point with the date when the file we want to delete was not yet on the computer. Click “Next” and “Yes”.

Video: how to perform a system rollback in Windows 7

Using a different OS

To apply the method:

Try booting from a removable disk with a different operating system.
Delete the file/folder.

Moving

In some cases, a rather primitive method can help - drag the folder onto a clean memory card and clear it.

Transfer the file to the memory card

Removing an unwanted item using the command line

You can open the Command Prompt in the following ways:

The Win+R key combination opens a window into which we enter “cmd”;
“Start” -> “All Programs” -> “Accessories” -> “Command Prompt”.

The first way is as follows:

Type the combination chkdsk c: /f/r in the line and press Enter. In combination with: - this is a hard drive that needs to be checked. If you want to check another drive, then change the letter (drive name).
A message about checking the disk upon reboot will appear - you must enter Y and press Enter. If another disk is checked, the process starts immediately.
Now the unnecessary element can be deleted.
If drive C is checked, then you need to restart the PC and delete the object.

The second method is to use short names if the element contains invalid characters:

You need to go to the storage location of the object and find out the short name. To do this, use the command “DIR/X” or “DIR/X/N”, which will display the short names of the elements in the folder.
After this, you can use the “DEL” or “RDMIR” command to eliminate the unwanted object.

Video: How to Remove Unwanted Items Using the Command Line

The above methods are suitable for any version of Windows 7.

Every personal computer sooner or later contains objects that cannot be removed in the usual way. However, there are ways to get rid of unwanted files, after studying which the user will have every chance to independently eliminate undeletable items from the PC.